Overcoming Amcrest Security Camera Mounting Issues
You've chosen a high-quality Amcrest camera to protect your property, but a successful installation depends on secure and correct mounting. Whether you're dealing with a tricky surface, awkward angles, or cable management, mounting issues can be frustrating. This guide provides practical solutions and best practices to help you overcome these challenges and ensure your camera is positioned for optimal performance and durability.
Our advice is professional, empathetic, and tailored to help you get the job done right. This guide is written in British English.
Common Amcrest Mounting Problems
Identifying the specific challenge you're facing is the first step to a successful installation. Here are some of the most common mounting issues users encounter.
- The provided screws are not suitable for the mounting surface (e.g., brick, metal).
- Difficulty drilling into hard materials like masonry or concrete.
- Unsure how to protect the camera's cables from weather.
- The camera's viewing angle is wrong after mounting, and it's hard to adjust.
- The mounting bracket does not feel secure or stable.
- Water is getting into the camera or its connections.
- Unsure where to position the camera for the best coverage.
A Guide to Securely Mounting Your Amcrest Camera
Follow these steps for a professional and secure installation, addressing the most common mounting issues along the way.
1. Planning the Camera Position and Surface
Before you drill any holes, proper planning is essential. The right location and mounting surface are critical for both camera performance and longevity.
- Optimal Height: Mount cameras high enough to be out of easy reach, typically around three metres (about 10 feet), but not so high that faces become unidentifiable.
- Viewing Angle: Position the camera to look down slightly. This often provides a better perspective and helps protect the lens from rain and sun glare. Avoid pointing the camera directly at the sun.
- Surface Assessment: Check the material you are drilling into.
- Wood/Siding: The included screws are usually sufficient.
- Brick/Masonry/Concrete: You will need a hammer drill and masonry drill bits. Use the included wall plugs (anchors) for a secure grip.
- Metal: This requires special self-tapping screws and a powerful drill.
2. Using the Right Tools and Hardware
Having the correct tools makes the job significantly easier and safer.
- Drill and Bits: A good quality drill is essential. Use wood bits for wood, and masonry bits for brick and concrete.
- Mounting Template: Your Amcrest camera likely came with a sticker template. Apply this to the wall to ensure you drill the holes in the exact right spots.
- Screws and Plugs: Always use wall plugs when mounting on drywall or masonry. The screw expands the plug, creating a tight, secure fit.
3. Managing and Protecting Cables
Exposed cables are vulnerable to weather and tampering. Proper cable management is a hallmark of a professional installation.
- Use a Junction Box: For outdoor mounting, using a compatible Amcrest junction box is the best practice. The camera mounts directly onto the junction box, and all the cable connections are housed safely inside, protected from rain, dust, and UV rays.
- Drill a Hole: Alternatively, you can drill a larger hole through the wall directly behind the camera mount to pass the cables inside. Ensure you seal the hole around the cables with high-quality silicone sealant to prevent water ingress.
- Conduit: For surface-run cables, use a plastic or metal conduit to protect them from damage and the elements.
4. Adjusting the Final Viewing Angle
Once the camera is mounted, you'll need to aim it correctly.
- 3-Axis Adjustment: Most Amcrest dome and turret cameras have a 3-axis gimbal. You may need to loosen a small set screw, then you can pivot, turn, and rotate the lens assembly to point in any direction.
- Live View: Use the Amcrest View Pro app on your phone to see the live feed while you are at the camera's location. This allows you to make precise adjustments to the viewing angle in real-time. Once you're happy, tighten any set screws to lock it in place.